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How to Protect Yourself During the Hottest Months of the Year

Last Updated on Wednesday, 16 May 2018 15:34

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Sunlight gives us vitamin D which is crucial for our health and wellbeing, and once temperatures soar, many of us choose to spend most of our time outdoors. However, as upon hitting its peak, heatwaves can cause a variety of health conditions – some of which can be extremely dangerous. Doctors suggest that there are many ways in which we can protect ourselves against suffering such illnesses. Between 1999-2010, 7415 people died of heat-related conditions in the US alone, therefore taking care of yourself and your loved ones is of high importance.

Here are some useful tips to bear in mind during a heatwave season:

1. Stay hydrated

Even though you may be simply relaxing in the sunshine rather than being physically active, our bodies can lose a great deal of water through sweat alone. Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids which are non-alcoholic to keep yourself hydrated. It would be advised to drink two liters of water per day to avoid suffering the immediate effects of dehydration.

2. Be aware of mosquitos

While mosquitos are not directly related to the effects of the sun, these pests come out in swarms when the temperature soars. Mosquitos can be deadly, due to carrying diseases such as Malaria, Dengue Fever, and West Nile Virus.

A simple way, which is also one of the most effective ways to prevent mosquito bites would be to cover your skin with long-length clothing which is fairly loose in fit and light in color. Mosquitos have been known to nibble through tight-fitting clothing and are also most attracted to darker tones. You may also choose to purchase an over-the-counter insect repellent to apply directly on the skin, which can be picked up at a selection of drug stores.

Again, the type of clothing you wear is important when it comes to protecting yourself from the sun’s rays. Be aware of choosing clothing made from natural fibers which are not only lightweight but are also great for soaking up moisture when you sweat. Those living in hotter climates should cover themselves completely to shield the skin and prevent getting sunburnt. Protect the head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, as too much exposure to the sun can lead to heat exhaustion and in more severe cases, heat stroke, which is when the body can no longer control its temperature. In this case, the body stops perspiring, and the skin can become extremely dry.

4. Keep room temperatures low

Due to the extreme heat of the outdoors, ensuring the interior of your home is kept cool is essential. One method would be to place ice cubes in front of a fan to cool the surrounding air within the room. You may also wish to keep your pillow cool for bedtime by wrapping it in a sealed bag and storing it in the fridge during the day, so you can sleep easy in the evenings without overheating.
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